A 26-year-old man is facing attempted murder charges after a Lummi Nation police officer was shot multiple times during a traffic investigation in Whatcom County.
The shooting occurred just before 1 a.m. Monday, July 28, along the 3200 block of N. Red River Road
The officer — a 37-year-old who has been with the department for less than a year — approached a vehicle that had veered into a ditch shortly before 1 a.m., according to the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office.
As the officer tried to speak with the driver, the suspect opened fire, striking him multiple times before fleeing the scene, police said.
The shooting triggered an immediate multi-agency response, including activation of the Law Enforcement Mutual Aid Response Team (LEMART). After an intensive search, police arrested 26-year-old Whatcom County resident Javier Pena Flores on suspicion of attempted murder.
Officials say the officer received emergency care and underwent surgery. He is now in stable condition.
“This morning, a Lummi Police Officer was just doing his job, serving his community, when he was shot,” said Whatcom County Sheriff Donnell Tanksley. “We are so grateful to our tribal, law enforcement, and community partners for their assistance in locating and taking the suspect into custody.”
In a press conference, Sheriff Tanksley condemned the violence and called for community solidarity.
“Violence against law enforcement is an attack on the safety and security of us all,” he said. “We ask for your prayers and support for the Lummi Nation police officer, Lummi Nation Police Department, and all those who serve to keep us safe.”
The investigation remains ongoing and is being led by LEMART, with further updates to be provided by the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office.
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